Giulietta/Giulia spider top frame for sale

[Tom Sahines <tsahines@domain.elided>]

The top frames for a 750 and 101 are different because of the shorter wheel
base of the 750. When buying a top frame it is important to look at the
condition of the panel which comes into contact with the top of the
windshield. If this panel is bent the frame is pretty much worthless. If
this panel is rusted it becomes weak and can easily distort. It can also be
distorted by a top installation that is too tight. When a tight top is
raised the tension can often distort this panel.

The early top frames were held together with shoulder bolts that were
staked in so that they would not back out. These frames often show a lot of
wear in the pivot points and need to have all of these pivots rebuilt. This
is a major job. The later top frames have large rivets at the pivot points
and are much superior. I have fitted the later top frame to a car which
originally came with the earlier type with great success (1962 top frame on
a late 1959 long wheel base spider).

Before having a top installed on a Giulietta or Giulia car be sure that the
top frame is clean and painted. Make sure that you understand how the
mechanism works and that it is lubricated. There are two latches under the
deck behind the seats that are alternately engaged and disengaged as the
top is raised and lowered. It is important to teach the top installer how
these latches work. I have seen quite a few tops installed on frames that
were not raised properly causing the top to fit incorrectly or to damage
the front panel because the fit was too tight.

Additionally the first two bows should be at the same height before the top
is installed. The position of the bows is determined by two wide strips of
cloth that are riveted to the bows. If these strips are not installed
correctly the rest of the job will not go well. I always prepare the frame
and install these strips before having the top installed.

Installation of a Giulietta or Giulia top should be done by a pro. This is
not a task for the casual or even experienced home mechanic. It is much
more difficult that a later model spider.

When doing a top it probably is best to let the installer buy the top and
install it as well. Too often the installer will blame the manufacturer for
a bad fit and the manufacturer will blame the installer. You are caught in
the middle and get the shaft. If the installer buys the top and installs it
then he is responsible for the guarantee of his work and you don't have to
worry about whos fault it is. Maybe you can save a few bucks but it may not
be worth the hassle.



TOM SAHINES ARA TECH HOT LINE SAN JOSE CA 

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